There's nothing like heading to a game or a show with a big group - a birthday crew, a family reunion, a company outing or the whole office softball team. Group outings create memories, but they also take more planning than buying a pair of seats. The biggest challenge is almost always the same: getting everyone together. Here's how to plan a group outing that goes smoothly from the first text message to the final whistle.
Start with a headcount
Before you look at seats, figure out how many people are really coming. Ask everyone to confirm early, and decide whether spouses, kids or plus-ones are included. A group of eight is very different from a group of thirty, both in what's available and in how you'll want to sit. It's also smart to decide up front who is paying - whether one person is covering everyone or each person is paying their share - so there are no surprises later.
Agree on a budget
Prices for the same event can vary widely from section to section. Agree on a budget per person before you start shopping. That keeps the conversation simple and helps our agents find the best seats for your group without going over what everyone is comfortable spending. If some people want premium seats and others want to save, consider splitting into two smaller groups in different sections.
Start early. Big blocks of seats go first.
Why big blocks of seats are harder to find
On the resale market, most tickets are listed in pairs or small groups of three or four. Large blocks of seats side by side are much harder to find, and they get scarcer as the event gets closer. That's why starting early matters so much for groups. If you're flexible, there are a few ways to make it easier: you can sit in two or three rows directly in front of or behind each other, split into smaller groups in the same section, or choose sections where larger blocks are more common.
Consider group-friendly areas
Many stadiums and arenas have areas designed for groups, like party decks, picnic areas, suites and standing-room spaces where people can mingle. These can be a great choice for company outings and celebrations, because everyone can move around and talk instead of being stuck in a single row. Availability and pricing vary by venue and event, so ask our agents what's possible for your date.
Pick the right event
Some events are easier for groups than others. Weeknight games and shows often have more seats available together and lower prices than weekend dates. Regular-season games are easier than playoff games. If your group is flexible on the date, give us a few options and we'll help you find the one that works best. For family groups with young kids, an afternoon or early-evening start time can make the whole day easier, and seats near an aisle make trips to the restroom and concession stand much less of a hassle for everyone in the row.
Plan the logistics
Once you have your tickets, think about the details. Where will everyone meet? Is the group carpooling, taking a bus or meeting at the venue? Will you tailgate or eat beforehand? Make sure everyone knows the venue's bag policy and entry rules. If tickets are mobile, decide whether one person will scan the whole group in or whether you'll transfer each ticket to its owner. Transferring individual tickets means people can arrive on their own schedule.
Corporate outings and client entertainment
Tickets are one of the most effective ways to thank employees or build relationships with clients. A night at the ballpark, a football game or a great concert gives people a shared experience they'll talk about long after the event. For business outings, plan further ahead, confirm attendance in writing and consider premium seating or hospitality areas that make it easier to talk.
Keep a little flexibility
Plans change. Someone gets sick, a babysitter cancels or a work meeting runs late. Have a plan for extra tickets, whether that's a waiting list of friends who'd love to go or a coworker who can take a spot at the last minute. Remember that once tickets are transferred, they belong to the person who accepted them.
Let us do the searching
Finding a big block of seats together can take a lot of searching. That's where we come in. Tell us the event, the size of your group and your budget, and a live agent at ABC Tickets will find the best options and tell you the exact seats and the exact price before you buy. Every ticket is 100% authentic and valid for entry, arrives in time for your event and comes with a full refund if the event is canceled and not rescheduled. All seats are side by side unless otherwise noted. Call 1-800-355-5555, Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
